Question 1

What is psychotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Psychotherapy, commonly referred to as therapy, is a process wherein a consumer or client seeks to find understanding, and often solutions to struggles both current and historic through a therapist. These can be issues ranging from poor self-esteem, mood instability, anxiety, depression, psychosis, marital struggles, identity transitions, and issues pertaining to certain diverse identity groups. As we talk and process, we come to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us--often improving our overall mood and functionality. EK Counseling provides evidenced-based treatment approaches to many of the above issues.

Question 2

I can usually handle my problems. Do I really need therapy?

Accepted Answer

I don't think you would be looking at this page if you thought the above were true....   Now for the non-snarky answer... Sometimes life becomes overwhelming and requires intense amounts of motivation and effort to achieve things that once felt easy. Therapy can decrease that required effort and make your life much more manageable. Why muddle through it alone when you can do it with someone else?

Question 3

What is the length and frequency of therapy?

Accepted Answer

When we meet, we will decide together the ideal length and frequency of future appointments. Most therapy sessions are 45 minutes in length, but we can plan longer or shorter sessions if better suited to your needs. In some cases, we may meet weekly, in some cases, biweekly or even less frequently, again according to your needs and preferences. The frequency of the sessions may change as the process goes along and you become increasingly able to take what you've gained in session out into your own life.   EK Counseling is modeled after a family medical practice model meaning we are there for you throughout your lifetime. Many clients will utilize therapy only for a crisis, while others will want to engage in deeper longterm work. We often see returning clients who face new and different issues along their lifespan, and we welcome their return with open ears.

Question 4

Is therapy confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, therapy is completely confidential both in the room, as well as protected written communications between therapist and client. Clients under the age 15 cannot consent to their own mental health treatment without the additional consent of their legal guardian.   There are caveats to confidentiality for clients under the age of 18 in Colorado and we're happy to discuss these during your initial inquiry.    Additionally, confidentiality may be broken in the event of specific disclosure around suicidal or homicidal tendencies, child sexual abuse, or a threat to public safety. Please inquire with your therapist for details on these guidelines.

Question 5

Is medication a substitute for therapy?

Accepted Answer

EK Counseling believes that medication and therapy work symbiotically, not in place of one another. Although a person may not need one or the other, they may enhance and quicken the process of healing for certain individuals. Medication gets a bad rap, however, many people find it very helpful in making their lives more manageable. Many people worry it will alter their brain chemistry permanently, or that they will never be able to stop medication once they start--these worries are unfounded and simply untrue.   I often present medication as an option after thorough assessment, and only if I truly feel it would be a beneficial option for my client to consider. We then work together to find a medication provider to connect you with so you may further evaluate the option for yourself.

Question 6

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

We do not accept insurance.    Reasons Why We Do Not Accept Insurance:   We must assign you a mental health diagnosis for insurance reimbursement. Sometimes these are not the most accurate reflection of what issue is present in therapy. For those whose issues are subclinical in nature, this is especially relevant as insurance may not provide coverage. The diagnoses assigned to you stay on your permanent health record which can impact future opportunities. We must share private health information with your insurance company compromising the confidential nature of the therapeutic relationship. Many insurance companies allot a certain amount of sessions for outpatient therapy or per diagnosis. We must then justify ongoing treatment in order for the coverage to continue taking away from direct client care. Please refer to our Investment page for more information on reduced fee slots.

Question 7

How do I find the right therapist?

Accepted Answer

Some questions you might ask the potential psychotherapist include:   Are you a licensed therapist?  Tell me about your education and training background. What is your specialty?  How much experience do you have working with people who have my problem, condition, or concern? What is your treatment approach? How is this intervention (e.g., Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) supposed to work? Is this intervention effective for my problem/condition? On average, how long does the treatment take? How should I assess whether the treatment is working?  What are your fees and related costs? Do you have reduced fee/sliding scale slots available? At EK Counseling, we believe fit between client and therapist is essential to a successful therapy experience. Let's face it, we know getting to know a therapist can feel a lot like an awkard first date, been there, done that. We're happy to relieve any of that discomfort by answering your questions at any point in the therapy process. We know you'll be nervous and skeptical when you come in for your first visit, and its our hope that you can leave the first appointment feeling that this person "gets me and my issue(s), and perhaps even a little excitement as we begin this exploration together.

Question 8

Do you have handicap accessibility at your location?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We have elevators in the building for easy and convenient accessibility.

Question 9

Do you have gender neutral restrooms?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We have gender neutral restrooms on the same floor as our office for your convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions